Book now for May’s top shooting show 

As a long-time attendee of The National Shooting Show in Harrogate, I can honestly say it’s one of the best weekends of the year for anyone passionate about shooting, fieldsports and countryside life. This year’s event will take place on 10-11 May. While keeping its traditional feel, the show manages to get better and better – especially if you’re a BASC member.

One of the great perks of BASC membership is the incredible value it offers at major events like this. Not only do BASC members get complimentary entry to The National Shooting Show – simply by using your membership number on the show’s website (nationalshootingshow.co.uk). You can also enjoy free tea or coffee at the BASC village. Under-16s and dogs can also enter free of charge, making it a brilliant, family-friendly day out.

And the perks of membership don’t stop there. BASC members can also get complimentary entry to The Game Fair at Ragley Hall on 25-27July – another huge date in the countryside calendar. Between the two events, these are serious savings and a packed summer of countryside action.

But back to Harrogate: the BASC village at the show is one of the highlights of the weekend. With lively events on the indoor stand, an extensive outdoor area, and the ever-popular Hunters Kitchen, there is something for everyone. If you’re a fan of great countryside cooking – and who isn’t? – you’ll love the line-up of live demos from talented chefs, including Greg Lewis, Amy Thompson, Lionel Strub, Nick Lister and Simon Whitehead. From venison steak to bunny burgers and pigeon on toast, the demos will be full of flavour and practical tips.

Elsewhere in the BASC village, you’ll find expert advice on everything from firearms licensing, gamekeeping and non-lead ammunition. There will be live Q&A sessions with the BASC firearms team at 11am and 2pm each day, plus the GAIM VR shooting simulator to test your skills – a firm favourite with all ages.

Live demos

In the outdoor deer area, BASC’s dedicated team will be providing live demonstrations and advice covering everything from thermal drone technology and lymph node inspection to roebuck calling and head measuring. Artemis Deer Stalking, an established women’s stalking group, will be based in this BASC area, offering advice and running a raffle – it’s an area well worth a visit.

Families are well catered for too. BASC’s kids’ conservation area offers free bird-box building sessions, a pigeon plucking workshop, and a scavenger hunt with BASC goodie bags up for grabs. There is plenty to keep the younger generation entertained and inspired all day long.

When it’s time to take a break, don’t forget to grab your free brew for BASC members in the BASC village, recharge and catch up with fellow members, friends and the BASC team. Here, you can rest your feet and take five minutes during a busy day at the show.

Add in the fantastic stalls and shopping, BASC’s clay line shooting competitions, interesting demonstrations, Q&As and much more, plus the chance to catch up with old friends and meet new ones, and it’s clear why The National Shooting Show is such a key event.

If you’re a BASC member and haven’t yet signed up for complimentary entry, make sure you do before the show.